Mood Boost from Vacations Short-Lived

The researchers surveyed 1,530 Dutch adults, 974 of whom
took a vacation during the 40-plus week study period, and found that those in
the planning phase of a vacation had higher happiness scores than those not
going away, LiveSciene reports. Following the trip, vacationers and
non-vacationers showed no difference in their happiness levels, unless the time
off was considered very relaxing.

Even when vacations were reported as relaxing, there was
a slight happiness boost for vacationers noticeable during the first two weeks
back, but after eight weeks, that slight increase had faded completely, according
to the news report.

The research team said it isn’t surprised by the short
shelf-life for this vacation boost, since most vacationers go right back to the
daily grind pretty quickly upon return, and during vacations many people stay
connected to the office so the relaxation potential is not fully realized.

The research is
published in the February 10 online issue of the journal Applied Research in
Quality of Life.